OECD’s Gurría congratulates Italy on new Jobs Act bill

 

OECD Secretary-General Angel Gurría congratulates Prime Minister Renzi on the passing by the Italian Senate of a bill enabling the government to elaborate a comprehensive reform of the labour market – the so-called Jobs Act. “This is a highly welcome development. If fully implemented, the Jobs Act will contribute to put Italy on a more dynamic growth path that will bring benefits across the population, boosting job creation and reducing unemployment,” he said.

 

“The Jobs Act has the potential to improve the functioning of the Italian labour market by reducing its widespread segmentation and fostering the creation of more productive, secure and rewarding jobs, especially for disadvantaged youth and other vulnerable groups. The Job Act’s comprehensive nature should be maintained once translated into legislation, as it will be most effective in achieving these goals. The proposed reform will provide greater clarity on the costs and time involved in the dismissal of workers for economic reasons, incentives for firms to hire or convert more workers on permanent contracts, and efforts to promote the participation of women. It will also extend income support to all the unemployed and more effective re-employment services for jobs seekers.

 

I encourage the government to move swiftly in the conversion of the Jobs Act into law and to promote its full implementation.

 

The OECD will continue to work with the Italian government to support its reform efforts to effectively promote a more inclusive labour market and sustainable economic growth for the benefit of all Italians.”

 

Further reading

OECD Employment Outlook 2014

• Key findings for Italy: English, Italian
• Chapter 4: Non-regular employment, job security and the labour market divide